7 signs the Ralph renovations are nearing completion

Just one month out from the preseason home opener at Ralph Wilson Stadium, the offseason-long renovations are showing signs that fans are soon to be welcomed. Take a look at the progress at the Ralph.

1) The scoreboards are powered up.

All three (yes, three) video boards and a fourth to be used for advertisements have been installed and tested – and if we’re being completely frank, they look awesome. The video board you know from seasons past has maintained its frame but increased in screen size by 60 feet, and the pair of brand new boards atop the M&T Bank Club and the Time Warner Cable Business Class Club will play game action, show real-time game and fantasy stats, and keep you in the know, all-game long, like never before.

2) The concrete has been poured.

Recognize these pathways? We didn’t either. That’s because they’re brand new. Finding your way to your seats will be stress-free (and by the looks of it, fun) with improved navigation via a whole new system of pathways around the stadium.

That’s all not to mention the new monumental staircases on either side of the stadium, taking you down to the 100 level. They’re easy to find and on top of that will let a whole bunch of light into the lower level concourses. Happy trails, Bills fans!

3) The taps and ovens are in.

And they’re ready for action. LaNova, Duff’s, Tim Hortons and Pizza Logs have all announced they’ll bring some local flavor to the concession options on gameday, along with the new Coors Light Sports Bar on the east end. Because nothing tastes better than a little Buffalove during a Bills game.

4) There’s progress at The Bills Store.

At four times the size of the current Bills Store, the new store is impressive. The structure has been in place for a few months, and now the little pieces are starting to come together. It’ll make a statement when all is said and built.

5)The gates are looking super.

We mean that quite literally. They’re called Super Gates. They’re bigger than ever and you won’t be able to miss them or their many points of entry to get you into the stadium and where you need to be in no time.

6)The broadcast booths have taken shape.

Can you hear John Murphy’s voice now? The first broadcast out of Ralph Wilson Stadium in 2014 is just around the corner when the Bills host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on August 23, and the Voice of the Bills and his broadcast team will have a renovated home, noticeable from the stands. When you look around from your seat to admire the renovated Ralph in a little over a month, give Murph, Mark Kelso and co. a wave!

7)The energy is palpable.

The color scheme is different. The perimeter of the stadium is expanding. The look and feel as you head into the game is updated. The food you’ll snack on is uniquely Buffalo.

The Ralph is almost ready. Your gameday is being renovated with the stadium, and it’s nearing completion as it readies to welcome you on August 23 and throughout the 2014 season.